Virtual train journeys around the world
One of the most therapeutic parts of a holiday is taking a scenic train journey and just watching the world go by. While our train adventures have to be put on hold this season, you can still enjoy these panoramic views from your screens.
Thanks to bloggers and train enthusiasts who have lovingly documented their entire journey, we too can have a magical journey around the world.
1. Geibi Line to Fukuen Line, Japan
Taking you through the Japanese countryside from Hiroshima Station to Fuchu Station, this route passes through the mountains of the Chugoku region. Be amazed by the stunning bridges and long tunnels that cut through these mountain ranges.
2. Noto Railway, Japan
The Noto Line in Ishikawa Prefecture is a 40-minute sightseeing rail ride offering scenic views of the bay area. The railway will take you from Anamizu to Wakura Onsen and in the spring, the Noto-Kashima station is best known for the row of nearly 100 Cherry Blossom trees on either side of the platform.
When it’s safe to travel again, travel hassle-free on these trains with your Japan Rail Pass!
3. Bernina Railway, Switzerland to Italy
The Bernina Express scenic train will take you takes you from Chur to Tirano in Italy, going through lots of spiral loops, 55 tunnels and 196 bridges. The landscapes vary greatly from alpine scenery on the Bernina Pass to Mediterranean scenery in the Poschiavo valley nearer to Tirano.
4. Wengernalp Railway, Switzerland
Taking you from Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg. Get ready to virtually cross charming Swiss villages and tree-covered slopes as you climb up into the mountains, eventually passing through majestic snow-covered mountains and deep valleys.
5. The Flåm Railway, Norway
Considered one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world, the Flam Railway takes you from Aurlandsfjord in Sogenfjord to the mountains of Myrdal. Passing by waterfalls, ravines, snow-capped mountains and farms, this is one train we wouldn’t want to get off.
6. Nordland Line, Norway
If you’re feeling the heat at home, maybe a trip through the Arctic Circle will help you chill out. Starting at the Trondheim Fjord in Trondheim head farther north into the Arctic Circle on the Nordland Line and countdown to next winter!
7. Jacobite, Scotland
Potterheads, this one is for you! The Jacobite Steam Train might seem familiar to you because it’s the train that appears in the Harry Potter movies. As the train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, feel as if you’re on board the Hogwarts Express and on your way to school!
8. Puffing Billy, Melbourne
The Puffing Billy is a traditional steam train that runs through the Dandenong Ranges in Melbourne. As you pass through the mountain track between Belgrave and Gembrook, enjoy the views of the ‘Mountain Ash’ trees and the iconic Monbulk Creek trestle bridge.
When it’s safe to travel again, get your tickets and make that trip in real life!
9. Badulla to Nanu Oya, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is famous for having some of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. While not all of us are up for the ride, we can still experience the rattling wooden carriages through our screens. As the train climbs into tea country and through stretches of dense forest, get ready for tall grass, bobbing palms and the precarious ridges.
10. Royal Gorge Route, United States
The Royal Gorge Route train takes you through Colorado’s amazing natural features - the Grand Canyon of the Arkansas River. The train passing through the 30 ft wide canyon causes it to be suspended above the river on an architectural feat known as the “hanging bridge.
